Weather Topic: What are Altocumulus Clouds?

Similar to cirrocumulus clouds, altocumulus clouds are characterized by cloud patches. They are distinguished by larger cloudlets
than cirrocumulus clouds but are still smaller than stratocumulus clouds.

Altocumulus clouds most commonly form in middle altitudes (between 2 and 5 km) and may resemble, at times, the shape of a flying saucer.
These uncommon formations, called altocumulus lenticularis, are created by uplift in the atmosphere and are most often seen in close proximity to mountains.

Weather Topic: What are Cumulus Clouds?

Cumulus clouds are fluffy and textured with rounded tops, and may have flat bottoms. The border of a cumulus cloud
is clearly defined, and can have the appearance of cotton or cauliflower.

Cumulus clouds form at low altitudes (rarely above 2 km) but can grow very tall, becoming cumulus congestus and possibly the even
taller cumulonimbus clouds. When cumulus clouds become taller, they have a greater chance of producing precipitation.